Satisfy your appetite with new flavors at these debut restos in town.
Cioppino with crab and mussels at Duemani
Duemani
From the owner’s of Acquolina comes Duemani—a warm and vibrant restaurant delivering refined Italian coastal cuisine, prime meats and rotisserie. Among the glowing candles lining the interior space, a gray marble bar, Mediterranean blue glass walls and soft sconce lighting take guests out of Aspen and into modern-day Italy, where Old World meets New. The wine list boasts discerning collections of domestic, Italian and French varietals, and the private dining area will surround groups with wine-filled walls and custom walnut furniture accommodating up to 26 people. 216 S. Monarch St.
Joonas
Aspen’s only wine and tapas bar is set to open this winter after the new year. Escape the cold, and cozy up by the fireplace at this intimate resto that features an open kitchen and a quaint bodega. Sip and munch on tasty bites from the regularly changing menu (the bar will also offer a select tequila menu); dishes are served family-style and inspired by different cuisines of the world—most notably Mauritius, the birthplace of owner Alia Joonas. 301 E. Hopkins Ave., 970.922.8449, joonasaspen.com
Bear Den Aspen
Joonas owner Alia Joonas (see previous column) studied baking in France. She brings those European culinary touches with her to Aspen’s newest bakery-cafe in the snug brick cottage on the corner of Restaurant Row. Coffee, homemade pastries, bread and combination breakfast plates will have a line out the door most mornings. Come afternoon, find a robust melting-pot lunch menu of soups, salads and sandwiches influenced by European, Middle Eastern and Asian flavors (everything on the menu is organic). By happy hour, stay for the wine, craft cocktails and other homemade drinks. 301 E. Hopkins Ave., 970.922.8449, beardenaspen.com
Campo de Fiori
A 25-year-old town favorite, Campo de Fiori has expanded with the addition of a community room. Inspired by the gathering spaces often seen in Italy (think an enoteca or trattoria), this new space—with beautiful cabinetry and surrounded sliding windows—feels like “Campo’s younger, more modern sister,” says owner Elizabeth Plotke, while also maintaining the restaurant’s signature bucolic vibe. Guests can enjoy dining with friends and family at the big community table or have an intimate dinner at one of the smaller tables. The room, which is also a space for private parties, offers the restaurant’s regular menu and wine list, in addition to a special, well-priced menu featuring countryside, rustic cuisine. 205 S. Mill St., 970.920.7717, campodefiori.net
Photography by: Izzy Woods/Courtesy of Duemani
